To report suspected elder abuse or neglect call the Adult Services Hotline at (805) 781-1790 during regular business hours, or after business hours call (844) 729-8011

Adoption Assistance

What is this service?

The Adoption Assistance Program (AAP) is a benefit program designed to meet an adopted child’s needs up to age 18. In some instances, this benefit can be extended up to the age of 21. This program includes a monthly financial stipend, medical insurance through Medi-Cal, and a one-time reimbursement of non-recurring adoption expenses (up to $400 per child).

Who can use this service?

Parent(s) who have adopted a qualifying child through a California licensed public or private adoption agency may apply for AAP.

Is there a charge for this service?

This service is provided free of charge.

What is the process?

Step 1: Begin the Adoption Process

Parent(s) begin the process of adopting a child (or children) through a California licensed public or private adoption agency.

Step 2: Requesting Ongoing Assistance

During the adoption process, the parent(s) may complete and submit a Request for Adoption Assistance Benefit (AAP 1) form, designating a requirement for ongoing assistance or preference for a deferred agreement, which permits assistance at a later date. This document is provided by the licensed adoption agency.

Step 3: Financial Determination

The AAP benefit is a negotiated amount based on the needs of the child and the circumstances of the family determined through discussion between the responsible public agency and the adoptive parents. The maximum AAP benefit for which a child may qualify is based on what the child would have received in a licensed foster family home if he or she had remained in foster care.

Step 4: Ongoing Eligibility

The responsible agency will determine the child’s eligibility for participation in the program with a reassessment of the child’s needs and family circumstances a minimum of every two (2) years.

When and where is this service offered?

This service is established post-adoption and is provided by the state of California with Federal subsidies. An adopted child’s parents who receives AAP benefits from California may move anywhere in the world and still receive monthly subsidy payments until the adopted child’s 18th birthday (or 21, dependent on circumstances).

Location, directions and hours of operation

Click on location name to show hours of operation, directions and phone information

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Morro Bay Social Services

Monday - Friday 8-5

600 Quintana Road Morro Bay , CA 93442

Tel: (805) 772-6405

Fax: (805) 772-6409

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SLO Social Services- Higuera

Monday - Friday 8-5

3433 South Higuera San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Tel: (805) 781-1600

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Arroyo Grande Social Services

Monday - Friday 8-5

1086 East Grand Avenue Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Tel: (805) 474-2000

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Nipomo Social Services

Monday - Friday 8-5

681 West Tefft Street Suite 1 Nipomo, CA 93444

Tel: (805) 931-1800

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Atascadero Social Services

Monday - Friday 8-5

9415 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93422

Tel: (805) 461-6000

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Paso Robles Social Services

Monday - Friday 8-5

406 Spring Street Paso Robles, CA 93446

Tel: (805) 237-3110

Frequently Asked Questions

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Who may I contact for additional information on AAP?

Please contact the San Luis Obispo County Department of Social Services – Child Welfare at (805) 781-1700 and ask to speak to the Supervisor of the Adoption unit. Regular office hours are Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed on County-observed holidays).